The Cruel Fate of Pets in Laboratories
Each year, thousands of pets are subjected to experiments in Canadian laboratories, enduring pain, distress, and often, death in the name of research. Animal Alliance of Canada, a national animal advocacy organization, is fighting to end this cruel practice and protect animals from suffering.
The Scale of the Problem
- At least three million animals are subjected to experiments in Canadian labs each year.
- Over 25,000 pet dogs and cats were sent from Ontario shelters to labs over a recent five-year period.
- More than 5,000 lost or abandoned dogs and cats are taken from Ontario pounds and shelters by research facilities each year.
These statistics highlight the scope of the issue, but the true extent of the problem remains unknown, as not all labs are required to report.
The Use of Pets in Research
The practice of using pets in research is particularly egregious, as these animals are often surrendered or lost to shelters, only to be sold or donated to laboratories for use in research.
- In Ontario, the practice of selling or donating shelter pets to laboratories is legal.
- This means that over 5,000 lost or abandoned dogs and cats are taken from Ontario pounds and shelters by research facilities each year.
- Once these pets disappear into the world of animal research, it is nearly impossible for families to find out their fate.
Animal Alliance of Canada is fighting to end this cruel practice and protect animals from suffering.
Shining a Light on Oversight and Accountability
Animal Alliance of Canada is also scrutinizing the Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC), the national body responsible for overseeing the use of animals in science.
| Key Findings | Implications |
|---|---|
| Canada is the only G7 country without federal laws regulating animal experimentation. | This lack of regulation means that animal welfare standards are not consistently enforced across the country. |
| The CCAC’s voluntary guidelines are not sufficient to ensure animal welfare. | This highlights the need for stronger regulations and enforcement mechanisms. |
Animal Alliance of Canada is encouraging the public to take action, including supporting the No Pets in Research campaign and spreading awareness of the issue.
Take Action
Concerned citizens can support the No Pets in Research campaign by visiting animalalliance.ca/campaigns/pets-research, joining the mailing list for updates, and by spreading awareness of the issue.
“World Day for Animals in Labs is a stark reminder that countless animals, including our pets, suffer behind laboratory doors,” said Lia Laskaris, CEO of Animal Alliance of Canada.
“We started the No Pets in Research campaign decades ago, doing direct rescue of animals destined for research labs, because no one should ever lose a dog or cat and later discover they were sold to a lab. These animals are cherished family members, not disposable research tools.
